MEng Artificial Intelligence / Course details

Course description

One of the challenges in computing is to make computers demonstrate intelligent behaviour, so that they can solve new problems or cope with the unknown. Current achievements include image and voice recognition, and NASA's Mars Rovers. By combining the study of artificial intelligence and traditional computing techniques with an understanding from psychology of how humans learn, these degree programmes prepare you for a career applying computing in challenging applications.

Artificial intelligence related topics covered include techniques for representing and reasoning about knowledge, including approaches in machine learning in which general patterns are learned from examples. These programmes give you the opportunity to study these techniques, and their application in areas such as computer vision, games, natural language processing and the semantic web.

This four-year full-time MEng programme enhances the contents of the equivalent three-year BSc programme by enabling you to study specialised topics to a greater depth and broaden your skills and experience with a period in industry, enterprise related courses, and industrially-focused project work. The enhancements enable you to develop an in depth specialist knowledge across a range of computing subjects, including some covered by the MSc in Advanced Computer Science. They also allow you to understand the business skills needed to develop and manage a successful business exploiting computing technology.

Special features

Emphasis on industrial relevance through industrially related group project.

On graduating from this programme you will satisfy the educational requirements needed to become a chartered engineer.

Course units and themes of relevance to Artificial Intelligence include:

Fundamentals of Artificial Intelligence.

Artificial Intelligence Programming.

Machine Learning and Games.

Natural Language, Representation and Reasoning.

Visual Computing.

Teaching and learning

At Manchester we aim to provide a unique experience. Studying Computer Science with us will give you the chance to follow your academic curiosity and explore a fascinating subject.

A significant amount of your work will be project-based team work, tackling real problems. You will see how computer science is directly applicable to solving problems, across a broad range of areas.

The emphasis throughout is on independent learning, supported by regular meetings in small groups with personal tutors. You receive practical help and support from experienced staff and postgraduates, with leading experts guiding your learning and stimulating your interest. This approach is supported by conventional lectures and comprehensive on-line learning resources. We also provide excellent facilities, including specialist laboratories to support areas such as engineering and robotics.

Coursework and assessment

Unseen examinations account for about 60% of the assessment. These assess your abilities in the selection and application of knowledge, problem solving, and the design and evaluation of software or electronics. Other assessment is mainly through laboratory-based coursework that provides you with the opportunity to demonstrate your understanding of computer science of electronic principles by tackling specific problems on a more realistic scale, both individually and in groups. The remaining assessment is through presentations and essays where, in particular, you demonstrate the transferable skills you have acquired. In the third and final year, the non-examination assessment is mainly made up of the practical project.

Course content for year 1

Course units for year 1

The course unit details given below are subject to change, and are the latest example of the curriculum available on this course of study.

Scholarships and bursaries

The University of Manchester is committed to attracting and supporting the very best students. We have a focus on nurturing talent and ability and we want to make sure that you have the opportunity to study here, regardless of your financial circumstances. It is estimated that more than a third of our students will receive bursaries of up to £3,000 per year and many will be offered even more generous support. For further information, please visit the University scholarships and bursaries
page.

What our students say

Ben London: MEng Computer Science, current student

'The course has allowed me to study a subject that I enjoy and offers a wide range of modules meaning that I can select the areas that interest me most. During various modules we have heard from external lecturers representing a range of companies and organisations. This has provided me with a wider prospective of industry and even a few inside tips!'

Disability support

Practical support and advice for current students and applicants is available from the Disability Advisory and Support Service. Email: dass@manchester.ac.uk